In just a few days, France will host the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, bringing together heads of state and global tech leaders to discuss the future of AI. As the world's attention turns to Paris, a new report highlights France's significant contribution to the AI boom, with $8 billion in funding and over 750 startups creating 35,000 jobs.

The French AI Report, created by Galion.exe, Revaia, and Chausson Partners, provides a comprehensive overview of the country's thriving AI ecosystem. The report reveals that AI companies represented around 20% of all venture capital (VC) funding in Europe in 2024, with France emerging as a key hub for AI investment alongside the UK and Germany.

The data shows that European countries that tend to attract VC funding in general have also become the main AI investment hubs. The Nordics, in particular, are punching above their demographic weight in terms of AI investment. The report also notes that as AI companies grow, they tend to attract international investors, with US VC firms accounting for around 50% of money invested in AI companies at the Series C round and later.

In France, the AI industry is not only creating jobs but also driving innovation. Minister Delegate for artificial intelligence and digital technologies Clara Chappaz highlighted that there are over 2,000 scientists focused on AI research and 600 doctorate students working on artificial intelligence. Additionally, many French engineers and researchers are working for AI companies in the US, further solidifying France's position as a key player in the global AI landscape.

The report identifies the top 400 AI startups in France, with a focus on rising stars in the industry. While some startups are working on foundation models, the majority are focused on applications for specific verticals, such as health and climate. Companies like Owkin and Bioptimus are leading the way in health tech, while others are tackling climate-related challenges, including agritech, carbon and energy management, and new materials development.

The report's findings suggest that the AI boom is more distributed than expected, with many companies growing rapidly and contributing to the industry's overall growth. This is a significant departure from the zero-sum game mentality, where one country or company is seen as "winning" over others. Instead, the AI revolution appears to be a collaborative effort, with multiple players driving innovation and progress.

As the world gathers in Paris for the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, the French AI Report provides a timely reminder of the country's significant contribution to the AI ecosystem. With $8 billion in funding and over 750 startups creating 35,000 jobs, France is poised to play a major role in shaping the future of AI.

The full list of companies included in the report can be found here. As the AI industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how France and other countries contribute to its growth and development.